Health informatics — Use of mobile wireless communication and computing technology in healthcare facilities — Recommendations for electromagnetic compatibility (management of unintentional electromagnetic interference) with medical devices

This document provides guidance for the deployment, use and management of mobile wireless communication and computing equipment in healthcare facilities to mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI) hazards. This promotes effective electromagnetic compatibility among wireless technologies and active medical devices.

The recommendations in this document recognise the different resources, needs, concerns and environments of healthcare organisations around the world. Detailed management guidelines are given for healthcare organisations that desire full deployment of mobile wireless communication and computing technology throughout their facilities. In addition, suggestions are included for selective restrictions in cases where healthcare organisations have decided that comprehensive management procedures are not feasible, practical or desirable at the present time.

Main sections:

· Scope

· Current status of management of electromagnetic interference

· General recommendations

· Recommendation: Responsibility within healthcare facilities

· Recommendation: Inventory within healthcare facilities

· Recommendation: Testing within healthcare facilities

· Recommendation: Controlled use within healthcare facilities

· Recommendation: Noncontrolled use within healthcare facilities Recommendation: RF emissions from network sources

· Recommendation: Medical devices within healthcare facilities

· Annex A: RF technologies